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Best Campgrounds near Cedar, MI

832 Reviews

Camping areas surrounding Cedar, Michigan provide access to multiple bodies of water, including Lake Michigan and smaller inland lakes. The region includes several established campgrounds like Leelanau Pines Campground directly on Lake Leelanau, with 182 sites supporting both tent and RV camping. Lake Leelanau RV Park offers cement pads and full hookup sites for motorhomes, while Rustic Retreat provides a cabin experience for those seeking more shelter. These campgrounds are typically situated within 15-20 minutes of popular destinations such as Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the wine country of Leelanau Peninsula.

Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through October. Lake Leelanau RV Park operates from May 1 to October 31, while Leelanau Pines Campground runs from May 1 to October 15. Winter camping options are limited, and reservations are strongly recommended during summer months when lakefront sites fill quickly. The campgrounds near Cedar provide varying levels of amenities - from rustic state forest sites with vault toilets and water pumps to private campgrounds with full hookups, shower facilities, and boat launches. Many campsites offer electric hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. A camper noted, "We stayed at this campground for 4 nights in early September. This is a great location based around Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes areas."

Water access represents a primary attraction for campers visiting the Cedar area. Campers report high satisfaction with sites that provide direct lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating. Lake Leelanau campgrounds frequently receive praise for their waterfront locations and boat rental options. Several visitors mentioned proximity to local attractions as a significant benefit, with easy access to wineries, small lakeside towns, and natural landmarks. While some campsites are spacious and private, others are described as relatively close together, especially at popular lakefront properties. A review described Lake Leelanau RV Park as "right on Lake Leelanau, and they even rent boat slips. There is a tiny beach, fun for an afternoon dip with the kids." Mixed-use campgrounds throughout the area accommodate various camping styles while maintaining clean facilities and friendly service.

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Best Camping Sites Near Cedar, Michigan (175)

    1. D.H. Day Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    53 Reviews
    Glen Arbor, MI
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $20 / night

    "Pretty close to your neighbors, but our site still had some good tree cover. Easy walk to Lake Michigan through the campground. Vaulted toilets, community water and trash."

    "DH Day campground is the perfect rustic camping spot in Northern Michigan. All campsites are within easy walking distance to a beautiful Lake Michigan beach."

    2. Traverse City State Park Campground

    51 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5270

    "Located on busy US-31, but with pedestrian bridge over 4 lanes to beach. TART (Traverse Area Recreation Trail) access from campground. Easy biking to Traverse City or Acme."

    "Bathrooms were clean, sites were average size for Michigan state parks. Close to the bike trail, though a little noisy from the nearby airport and roads."

    3. Platte River Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    61 Reviews
    Beulah, MI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-4700

    $22 - $50 / night

    "One of my Favorite places in Michigan to camp. Out of the way without being out of the way. The walk in sites are a very short walk and well away from the other sites."

    "Lots of campsites 30 to 50 feet away from the roadway offering appropriate privacy. Woods and bushes separating campsites. Shower houses in excellent condition and clean. Pads for tents in place."

    4. Indigo Bluffs RV Park

    24 Reviews
    Empire, MI
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 326-5050

    "It has a fire pit, nearby bathrooms, WiFi, and was in short driving distance to the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City."

    "This is one of my favorite campgrounds and it’s located in our favorite vacation destination!"

    5. Green Lake Rustic South — Interlochen State Park

    34 Reviews
    Interlochen, MI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 276-9511

    $20 / night

    "Every year I camp on the Green Lake side of Interlochen State Park, and this year was the first year I allowed a guest - my fiance."

    "Not super close to Michigan cities, but can drive back and forth to Traverse City."

    6. Leelanau Pines Campground

    10 Reviews
    Cedar, MI
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 228-5742

    $103 - $130 / night

    "Plenty of beautiful views of the lake! You’re tucked away from the main road but also close enough to enjoy nearby Sutton’s Bay ( which is worth a visit)"

    "The campground was very shady and situated right on the lake. We stayed in Site #50 and could carry our kayaks across a small grassy field to put in at the edge of the lake."

    7. Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    22 Reviews
    Traverse City, MI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 947-2770

    $60 - $260 / night

    "We stayed here in our little offroad teardrop camper which looked like David & Goliath when contrasted against the massive 5th wheels surrounding us."

    "There is a pool, jump pad, miles and miles of mountain biking trails and hiking trails, a man made lake which has some inflatable water toys."

    8. Lake Dubonnet Trail Camp

    9 Reviews
    Interlochen, MI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 922-5280

    "We stayed at this campground while doing the Michigan Shore to Shore Trail by horseback, therefore we were in the "horse" portion of the campground."

    "Off the beaten path but has great rustic campsites with firepits and there are restrooms and fresh water close by in each circle we will be back"

    9. Rustic Retreat

    4 Reviews
    Lake Ann, MI
    5 miles
    +1 (231) 649-1445

    $55 - $75 / night

    "I let Jamie know and without asking or expecting, she refunded me and wished me luck with our situation. The cabin was cute and cozy, I slept like a baby, definitely going to come here again."

    "Easy to get to, you can drive right up to the cabin and load in. But also, you're straight up in the middle of the woods. One of my favorite places to stay for sure!"

    10. Lake Leelanau RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Lake Leelanau, MI
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (231) 256-7236

    $36 - $109 / night

    "It's right on Lake Leelanau, and they even rent boat slips.  There is a tiny beach, fun for an afternoon dip with the kids."

    "It is beautiful, peaceful campground on Lake Leelanau which is located on the Leelanau peninsula in between West Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan in close proximity to the little town of Lake Leelanau, Suttons"

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Recent Camping Photos near Cedar, MI

384 Photos of 175 Cedar Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cedar, MI

832 Reviews of 175 Cedar Campgrounds

  • Kathie M.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Leelanau State Park Campground

    Beautiful small rustic campground

    This campground is my all time favorite. I don't think there is a bad site (51 sites plus 3 cabins). Very beautiful in the fall with outstanding forest hiking south of campground. I stayed in Cedar Cabin, sleeps 5, with heat, lights, fridge, microwave. Love that this cabin has a covered awning porch. Very short walk to Lake Michigan- you can even see if you have a clearing. Vault toilets so clean! Lighthouse is breathtaking. Rangers friendly. Highly highly recommend!

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort

    Lots of activities

    We just needed a spot for the night near Traverse City, and this fit the bill.
    It is a huge campground, with lots of activities for kids, but we have none. It was not high season, so it was not crowded and it was quiet. Our site was full service, but we only need electric for our van. The bathrooms were clean, but we were disappointed that the showers require quarters, as we had none. It was a great last minute opportunity, but I'm sure in high season you need a reservation.

  • Art W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Lively Acres Campground

    Clean, new, quiet

    We visited in mid October, out of season, but the phone reservation that same day was easy and helpful. Verizon cell service was good, and the Porta potties were clean. There were no plumbed toilets or showers. The planted trees and shrubs are young, so there is no shade or privacy between sites yet.

  • Erin F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2025

    Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground

    Off the beaten path

    Beautiful and quiet stay at the intersection of the NCT and Shore to shore trail. Miles of hiking trails, easy access to the lake for fishing and kayaking. Be aware the tick population has exploded.

  • Kammy H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Northern Exposure Campground & RV Park

    Beautiful fall morning, site on the lake

    Large campground, with very clean restrooms and showers. Beach, boat launch, childrens playground, fish cleaning station, store, pizza place, and nice hiking trails. I feel very relaxed here.

  • Therese S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Young State Park Campground

    Nice Lakeside Campground

    Lovely campground right on the water and sandy beach. Nice, clean bathrooms with showers, sites had electric hookups, camp area had potable water and black water dump. We came at the very end of the season (October 4-5) and from what I could tell, the campsite was shutting down, so I’m unsure of the availability going forward until next season. Overall a beautiful spot!

  • Therese S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Penny Park Campground

    Decent Little Campground

    Flat camp area on the lake. Some of the spaces have electric hookups. We came in the off season so it’s not too crowded, but the spaces are small so I imagine it would be tight in peak season. Bathrooms are currently locked, but there is a potable water spigot available. Reasonable camp fee - $20.

Guide to Cedar

Camping near Cedar, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something to offer.

What to do:

  • Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes: This national lakeshore is a must-see. You can hike the trails or just enjoy the stunning views. One visitor said, "The only thing I don't like are the pit toilets, but it's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water" at D.H. Day Group Campground.
  • Visit the Platte River: Perfect for swimming, kayaking, or fishing. A camper mentioned, "Amazing rangers with tons of info! Also worth checking out the fish hatchery on the Platte" at Platte River Campground.
  • Check out local towns: Traverse City is nearby and offers shops, restaurants, and local events. One camper noted, "It’s nice to have well-maintained showers to feel fresh after" at Traverse City State Park Campground.

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Betsie River Campsite said, "They clean the bathrooms multiple times a day which is nice."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. One review from Northern Exposure Campground states, "Staff was friendly. Campground was quiet and everyone who was around us was super nice and friendly."
  • Beautiful scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A camper at Leelanau State Park Campground remarked, "Beautiful location and beautiful views."

What you should know:

  • Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Barnes County Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are pretty close together in some locations."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. A camper at D.H. Day Group Campground noted, "It's the tradeoff for no electricity or running water."
  • Busy during peak season: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in summer. One camper at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, "The campground great with a lot of amenities for young and old alike."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places that offer swimming, fishing, or hiking. A family at Indigo Bluffs RV Park enjoyed, "Kids have fun. Large campground."
  • Pack for all weather: The weather can change quickly, so bring layers. A camper at Green Lake Rustic South mentioned, "It was chilly out and raining, but the bathrooms there were still nice!"
  • Plan meals ahead: Having meals planned can save time and stress. A visitor at Betsie River Campsite appreciated the "great recommendations for nearby attractions/events going on for the weekend and restaurants."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Traverse City State Park Campground noted, "The spots are very small and you have to park sideways."
  • Look for amenities: Some campgrounds offer electric hookups and water. A visitor at Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort said, "The campground itself is in a beautiful woods setting."
  • Book in advance: Popular spots fill up fast, especially in summer. A camper at Northern Exposure Campground mentioned, "Will absolutely come here again."

Camping near Cedar, Michigan, has a lot to offer, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to camp at Cedar Point State Park?

The ideal time to camp at Cedar Point State Park is from late spring through early fall (May to September), with peak conditions in summer. Like Fisherman's Island State Park Campground, early season campers might find the park less crowded but with some winter debris still present. For waterfront views similar to those at Barnes County Park Campground, book lake-facing sites in advance. Summer offers warmer swimming conditions and full park services, while September brings fewer crowds but cooler temperatures. The park typically closes for the winter season when temperatures drop.

What are the best RV campgrounds near Cedar Key, Florida?

Cedar Key offers several quality RV camping options. Lake Leelanau RV Park provides grassy sites with lake access, boat slip rentals, and a small beach that's perfect for families. While sites are somewhat compact, the park offers full hookups and attracts many seasonal campers. Another excellent option is Timber Ridge RV & Recreation Resort, which accommodates big rigs and offers amenities like water hookups and toilets. When visiting Cedar Key, look for campgrounds that provide water views, fishing opportunities, and protection from coastal winds.

Where can I find camping in Cedar City, Utah?

Cedar City, Utah offers diverse camping options to suit every preference. Thurston Park Campground provides waterfront sites with lake access for fishing and paddling, plus a nearby playground for children. For a more secluded experience, Young State Park Campground offers spacious sites with 30-amp electrical service and solid cell coverage. The park features well-maintained facilities and makes a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Most campgrounds near Cedar City are open from spring through fall, with summer being the peak season.

Is Cedar Breaks National Monument open for camping?

Yes, Cedar Breaks National Monument does allow camping in designated areas, though facilities are primitive. Similar to Bay Campground — Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, expect basic amenities like vault toilets and fire pits without showers or running water (bring filtration equipment). Campsites typically feel secluded and provide excellent access to hiking trails with beautiful scenery. The monument's campgrounds are seasonal due to the high elevation (10,000+ feet), generally operating from late June through mid-September when the access road is clear of snow. Always check current conditions before planning your trip as weather can affect accessibility.

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